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Former Abalone diver and Lobster fisherman Brian Franklin planted Apsley Gorge with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the early 1990’s. Situated in the Apsley Valley about 14 kilometres from the township of Bicheno, Tasmania, the vineyard enjoys an excellent climate for both these grape varieties. The first vintage was produced in 1993.
The vineyard, about 7 hectares, is farmed as low yield and non-irrigated to ensure the stability of the fruit, hand pruned and hand picked maintains the quality of the grapes from vineyard to winery.
Brian took over the winemaking in the late 1990’s and quickly became noticed as an exceptional winemaker. His winemaking skills in the traditional French style were honed originally with Phillipe Charlopin, one of Burgundy’s most notable winemakers. Brian has worked every vintage in Burgundy since 2000, lately working with Phillipe’s son Yann at Domain Charlopin-Tissier.
Apsley Gorge wine is distributed to every state in Australia and exported to several counties. The winery sits on the seaside at “The Gulch” in Bicheno, one of the most spectacular positions of any winery in Australia. Originally a fish processing factory, the classic character of the winery suits the history of Tasmania’s east coast. Fishing and agriculture are still major industries in the district with wine production and wine tourism becoming extremely popular.
Roast Duck, roast pork, roast lamb, mushroom risotto
The colour is typical of Apsley Gorge showing those deep purple tones with the classic cherry rim. This wine is unfiltered and unfined so it doesn’t have the sparkle of the stars, but more the hues of the earth. The nose has varietal fruit beneath the slightly feral, mysterious, nuances of the wild yeast. French oak is there providing yet another layer of complexity.
The pallet entry is rich and textured but also slightly restrained teasing you with what will follow. This wine is not a blockbuster but leans more towards elegance and refined burgundy characters with the long finish. This is a structured wine reflecting the philosophy of AGV, the expression of terroir and vintage.
